Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Computer vision syndrome (CVS) has become a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries. Therefore, this study aims to identify the prevalence of CVS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted using the databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase up to February 22, 2023, using the search terms "Computer Vision Syndrome" and "COVID-19". Three authors independently performed study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction, and the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used to evaluate study quality. Heterogeneity was assessed using the statistical test I 2 , and the R version 4.2.3 program was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 192 studies were retrieved, of which 18 were included in the final meta-analysis. The total sample included 10337 participants from 12 countries. The combined prevalence of CVS was 74% (95% CI: 66, 81). Subgroup analysis based on country revealed a higher prevalence of CVS in Pakistan (99%, 95% CI: 97, 100) and a lower prevalence in Turkey (48%, 95% CI: 44, 52). In addition, subgroup analysis based on study subjects showed a prevalence of 82% (95% CI: 74, 89) for CVS in non-students and 70% (95% CI: 60, 80) among students. Conclusion: According to the study, 74% of the participants experienced CVS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given this finding, it is essential to implement preventive and therapeutic measures to reduce the risk of developing CVS and improve the quality of life of those affected. Trial registration The protocol for this systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in the international registry of systematic reviews, PROSPERO, with registration number CRD42022345965.